Fosdinovo Medieval Festival
Two evenings in the Malaspina village featuring historical pageants, duels, and ancient crafts
About Fosdinovo Medieval Festival
The Middle Ages come to life in Fosdinovo
In the heart of Lunigiana, at the northernmost tip of Tuscany and just a few kilometers from the Ligurian border, the village of Fosdinovo (Province of Massa-Carrara) preserves one of the best-maintained castles in the region, the majestic Malaspina Castle. It is here, among the medieval walls and stone alleys, that the Fosdinovo Medieval Festival comes to life every summer, standing as one of the most cherished historical re-enactments in the Apuan territory.
A village returning to the past
For two evenings, the historic center transforms into a grand open-air stage. The town squares and venues become a suggestive medieval backdrop populated by artisans, performers, musicians, jesters, and fire-eaters. Along the cobblestone streets, visitors can witness historical pageants, sword duels, dances, games, street theater performances, and tastings of typical Lunigiana products. Artisan workshops and ancient crafts bring the skills and traditions of the past back to life, while taverns welcome visitors with the genuine flavors of local tradition.
The Malaspina legacy
The event celebrates the history of the Malaspina fiefdom, the lords who ruled this part of Lunigiana—crossed by the Via Francigena—for centuries. The castle overlooking the village provides a natural backdrop for the re-enactments: each edition reconstructs episodes and atmospheres linked to the noble house, with pageants, encampments, Renaissance music, and scenes of popular life that capture the soul of this territory.
A festival for everyone
The Medieval Festival is organized with passion by the Pro Loco of Fosdinovo APS in collaboration with the Municipality and local associations, and is included in the Tuscan regional calendar of historical re-enactment events. Admission is free: visitors only pay for dinner in the taverns or specific themed menus upon reservation. With pyrotechnic displays, falconers, readings, and workshops for children, it is an event perfectly suited for families, history buffs, and curious travelers alike.
Fosdinovo Medieval Festival — edition 2026
The 25th edition of the Fosdinovo Medieval Festival will be held on Saturday, July 4, and Sunday, July 5, 2026, in the village's historic center. For two evenings, the cobblestone streets at the foot of the Malaspina Castle will host historical pageants, duels, shows, music, and street theater, along with artisan workshops, ancient crafts, and taverns featuring the flavors of Lunigiana. The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Fosdinovo APS and is protected by the Tuscany Region in the calendar of historical re-enactment events.
The detailed program for the 2026 edition, including times, historical groups, and evening activities, will be announced by the organizers in the weeks leading up to the event on official channels (website and social media). Admission is free.
Programme Fosdinovo Medieval Festival 2026
The detailed program for the 25th edition (times, pageants, shows, historical groups, and tavern menus) will be published by the organizers in the weeks preceding the event on the official website and social media channels.
Based on past editions, the festival typically spans two evenings starting in the evening and includes: an inaugural historical pageant, performances by musicians and jesters, sword duels, medieval and Renaissance dances, falconry displays, fire-eater shows and fireworks, a medieval market with ancient crafts, workshops and readings for children, and taverns and refreshment points with typical Lunigiana products.
Highlights Fosdinovo Medieval Festival 2026
- 25th edition of the historical re-enactment in the Malaspina village
- Historical pageants, duels, and evening shows through the streets of the historic center
- Falconers, fire-eaters, musicians, and costumed jesters
- Medieval market, ancient crafts, and taverns with typical Lunigiana products
Prices Fosdinovo Medieval Festival 2026
Practical information — Fosdinovo Medieval Festival
How to get there
Fosdinovo can be reached by car from the Aulla or Carrara motorway exits on the A12/A15; the village is about 20 minutes from Sarzana and Carrara. The nearest train station is Sarzana, which is connected to the village by car or local bus.
Admission and hours
Free admission. Events take place in the evening in the historic center. Dinner in the taverns and courtly menus are paid and generally require reservation.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes for the stone alleys and uphill paths. For the updated program and reservations, it is recommended to follow the official social media channels of the event or contact the Pro Loco at +39 348 0609135.
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Where does it take place — Fosdinovo Medieval Festival
Centro storico di Fosdinovo